Open Studios dates are in

Margaret River Region Open Studios has confirmed its 2022 dates — and that this during year’s event, the two-week exhibition reached even more people. MRROS chairman Jim Davies said the recent art showcase was attended by record crowds. “We had a 30 per cent increase in overall visitor numbers compared to 2020, and the highest number in the event’s eight-year history,” he said. “There were a staggering 85,000-plus total studio visits to our 140 artists over the 16 days. “We had the largest ever visitation from Perth art lovers, with a 33 per cent growth and more than half our visitation making the trip from Perth to visit artist studios from Busselton to Witchcliffe. “This year also saw a high number of first-time visitors, with 37 per cent of art lovers enjoying Open Studios for the first time.” Artists thinking about exhibiting with Open Studios in 2022 were encouraged to start planning ahead, with registrations open on February 1. The 2022 festival will run from September 10-25.